Rise in Fitness Search Queries Reflect Indians’ Shift to Healthier Lifestyles
According to the latest Just Dial Consumer Insights report, post-COVID, Indians are embracing a more fit and healthy lifestyle, as evidenced by a staggering 234% year-on-year rise in searches for fitness training classes. This surge in interest is seen not only in Tier-I cities but also in Tier-II cities, which have now overtaken their metropolitan counterparts in terms of search volume.
Revival for Fitness Industry as COVID Restrictions Ease
The fitness training industry in India has faced significant challenges since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Gyms were forced to shut down, and traditional fitness classes like yoga transitioned to virtual models, leaving fitness trainers and gym owners in a precarious situation. However, with the withdrawal of COVID restrictions, the substantial increase in demand for gyms and yoga classes brings a ray of hope for the industry’s revival.
Tier-II Cities Outpace Tier-I in Fitness Search Queries
Just Dial’s search data indicates that even Tier-II cities are now actively searching online to find the best fitness classes in their neighborhoods, surpassing Tier-I cities in terms of search volume. During the April-May-June (AMJ) 2022 quarter, the total number of fitness-related searches in Tier-II towns and cities exceeded those in Tier-I cities by 6.3%. This shift signifies the growing health consciousness and motivation to prioritize physical well-being among residents of smaller urban centers.
Fitness Training Industry Benefits from Niche Services
Commenting on the emerging trends, Mr. Prasun Kumar, CMO of Just Dial, emphasized that the increased demand for fitness training classes bodes well for fitness trainers and gym owners. The past two years have seen a heightened realization among people about the importance of maintaining fitness and overall health. Notably, there has been a rise in demand for specialized services like dieticians and personal yoga trainers, which have experienced a remarkable 38% year-on-year growth. This trend has positioned Just Dial as the go-to platform for gym owners and fitness trainers to showcase their business and services.
